Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is one of the oldest practices in healthcare. It is the physical manipulation of muscle and soft tissue through a variety of techniques. Ultimately, multiple body systems including the muscular, skeletal, lymphatic, nervous, circulatory, and immune system can show positive results, and has the ability to improve emotional wellbeing and decrease stress.

There are several different types of massage. Each offers a different level of touch, differences in the type of stroke used, and pressure levels that are adjusted to the needs and comfort of each patient. No two patients will receive the same treatment. Massage therapy will promote your healing, overall wellness and relaxation.

Treatment Expectations

Your therapist will use a combination of their hands, fingers, fists or even elbows to knead your muscles and soft tissue. You will need to communicate with your therapist as to what feels the best.

Your individual experience will depend on the type of massage you are having. You will be relaxed when done, and you will need to focus on staying hydrated for the rest of your day. It is best to plan a massage when you can relax when you get home.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

You can expect the following overall benefits from massage therapy:

  • Your pain and muscle tension will decrease.
  • Muscle spasms will be relieved.
  • Stress, depression and anxiety are reduced. A massage leaves your feeling optimistic and happy.
  • Rehabilitation of sports injuries. Massage therapy can help your rehabilitation process go much faster.
  • Better circulation. When your muscles and soft tissue are functioning more normally your blood flow increases to a more normal level.
  • Increased relaxation.
  • Improved general wellness. A regular visit to a massage therapist will keep your systems in better shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some types of Massage Therapy can be somewhat uncomfortable as extremely tight muscles are loosened up. As a rule, always communicate with your massage therapist. If your massage is hurting you too much, then it cannot serve its purpose of healing and relaxation.

You can expect to feel completely relaxed. You will want to preserve this feeling of relaxation by continuing to avoid stress for the rest of the day. If possible, you will want to take it easy and it is important that you drink lots of water after your massage.

Massage frequency will depend on the condition(s) that you are receiving therapy for. Massage for injuries are recommended anywhere from 1-3 times per week for the first 4-6 weeks after initial injury. Some massages that focus on relaxation and stress reduction can be received weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. You can discuss this with your therapist and your treatment team.